Technical colleges like York Technical College offer a wide range of programs so anyone can pursue an education. One of these is a certificate program. This is typically a short program consisting of one or several classes on a specific subject. York Tech offers certifications for welding, carpentry, building construction management, electricity, HVAC, plumbing, and much more!
A certification is basically a guarantee that the person holding it has knowledge on the specified subject and is prepared to work in that field, at least at a basic level. Sometimes multiple certifications are available for a single career path. The certification system allows students to get training on specific subjects in as short an amount of time as possible.
Why Should I Get Certified?
If you have a high school diploma but are struggling to find work and can’t afford a bachelor’s degree program, a certification may be just what you need. If you already have a job in your trade of choice, but want to advance to higher-paying positions, a certification could help there too.
Many jobs, especially in trade-based fields, require certain credentials such as tech college certifications. If you decide to complete a certification program, you will see your career path open up much wider than before.
How Much Money Will I Make with a Certification?
While pay varies largely by industry, a certified worker with a job in their field can expect to make a healthy living no matter what. For example, utility line workers make around $54,000/year on average with just a single certification and some on-the-job experience. Firefighters make roughly $46,000 annually, again with just one certification.
The question is often posed: “Would I make more money with a certification than with a degree?” There are countless factors that go into an answer for this. Typically, more eduction = higher pay. However, depending on the field and what the local job market is like, it is possible to make more money with a certification than with a degree.
How Do I Get Certified?
One of the best qualities of a technical college certification is how easy it is to earn. Most certificate programs only take a single semester of classes, making it a great option for someone already in the workforce. Depending on whether you are a full-time student or a part-time student, the way you pay will be different. Either way, though, there are no requirements to live on campus, and you can take things at your own pace.
To research certificate programs and other technical college program options, we have them split up by career. Check out our Career Quick Guides, which explain what to expect in a given career. You can also visit our Financial Assistance page to learn more about how to pay for your certification program.
Professional certifications can open up a world of opportunity for individuals who are willing to put a little time into furthering their career. If you are looking for a low-cost, low-time commitment way to become a valuable member of the workforce, certification is for you. Learn about programs and classes at York Tech today.
